The truth

Hi.
I hope this doesn’t upset anyone I just need some advice. Because if this is a lie I will be mortified.
Someone I know told us almost years ago they had throat cancer. This certain person has a form for not being truthful..  It’s someone close so is very hard to ask out right for proof. 

it’s a male, he apparently has throat cancer, but other than a cough is very fit and well. But the cough he has had since I met him 13 years ago. 
I just maybe want some advice one what to look out for? What the treatment is etc